Colonel embezzled, but National Police mum on prosecution

Santo Domingo.- The National Police Wednesday announced the forced retirement of colonel Oscar Jimenez Vargas, ex head of the Complaints Reception Office, who’s being investigated for allegedly embezzling funds in that department.

But National Police spokesman Diego Pesqueira only mentioned Jimenez’s retirement, and not whether he’ll face criminal charges.

The lack of prosecution against senior police and military officers linked to serious crimes has plagued those entities for decades, and has prompted calle for sweeping reforms.

Pesqueira, quoted by listin.com.do, said that Jimenez had been relieved of duty since last week, after several people who went to Police Headquarters to file complains were charged money but weren’t given any receipts.

The official added that in addition to Jimenez, five clerks of that department are also under investigation.